NAME: Oluwatimilehin Osunneye
My name is Oluwatimilehin Osunneye, and I spent 11 memorable years; from 2004 to 2015 at Temple School. I joined the school right from inception. When I was in Reception, I was the only student in my class, and my teacher thoroughly pampered me. I vaguely remember having reading difficulties growing up and my Reception teacher at that time, Ms Ronke (as I used to call her) was so patient with me. To see how much the school has grown makes me so proud and excited for the future. I always told my parents I would attend Temple University whenever it was birthed because of how comfortable everyone around made me feel growing up. I remember Mrs Okharedia would always hug me and sing ‘You are my sunshine, my only sunshine’ whenever she saw me. During our breaks, she would always come out to have Hoola-hooping contests and limbo with us at the back of the first Temple building, which is now converted to classrooms. Temple will forever be a second family to me.
My favourite moments at Temple School involved Art classes. My Art teachers – Mrs Jinadu, Mr Akinyemi and Mrs Johnson, are still my biggest inspirations to date. I love drawing, and I can remember how much support everyone gave me; they always encouraged me. I also loved that Temple School was invested in pushing so many extra-curricular activities- from swimming to Taekwondo to ballet; we did it all. I firmly believe part of my love for art stemmed from the environment Temple School created.
Socially, I was very shy and reserved in many ways, but I also accomplished things I never thought I could; like attending one of the Model United Nations Conferences in Germany or even just having the opportunity to become a Prefect. I was able to step out of my comfort zone, and I believe those experiences were building me up to other prospects ahead. I later studied International Business at the University of Huddersfield in England, where I graduated with a First Class Honours degree in International Business. At Huddersfield University, I was an active member of the Art Society and had two of my works exhibited during my study. I also became a Student Academic Representative, which means that I acted as a mediator between students and lecturers, expressing concerns that students may not have the confidence to report directly to the school. I was also chosen to join a select few on the accountability panel at the University, I was able to work with the student union presidents and representatives to hold them accountable to their promises. We often held formal meetings to question them and ensure they were on top of their plans for the University and its students.
Some Memories
N e v e r F a d e
One of the things that I also never thought I would do is get a part-time job. While at Temple School, one of the requirements we had was to try to get as much work experience as possible. I kept that momentum going and tried new job experiences, especially in the Art and Fashion Industry. These experiences have proven very helpful in several interviews. I am currently working towards undergoing my Master’s Programme.
It is such an honour to share my journey till date, and I hope my story inspires someone to remain focused, be open to opportunities, and keep pushing against all odds. I am overwhelmed by the encouragement I still receive from Temple School. I wish to seize this opportunity to thank all my teachers and staff at Temple school who always advised me and have contributed to my progress in one way or the other. To mention a few, Mr Jimoh, Ms Ayinde, Ms Okeremeta, Mr Ajala, Mrs Ajetunmobi, Mrs Eneanya, Mrs Faseyi, Mrs Arofin and Mrs Okharedia. Thank you so much for your love and support over the years. I’m grateful.
